3,000 roadside trees disappear in Jashore amid illegal felling

More than 3,000 government-planted trees along rural earthen roads in Jashore have disappeared over the past decade, allegedly due to unchecked illegal felling and negligence by the authorities.

The trees were planted under a social forestry programme in the 2015–16 fiscal year along 11km of roads in Chanchra union of Sadar upazila. Of the 6,000 trees planted along a 6km stretch from Sarapol to Saraghuto, only about 2,500 now remain, according to forest officials. Locals said miscreants kill trees by cutting bark at the base before later removing the dried trunks. A recent visit found large empty stretches, fresh stumps and several damaged trees along the affected roads.

Residents alleged that some individuals have removed trees adjacent to their land, although the accused have denied the claims.

Prof Solzar Rahman of Government MM College said the method of bark cutting is being used systematically, adding that the loss of trees is already affecting the local environment and climate.

Forest officials said some trees were also damaged by storms but confirmed evidence of deliberate destruction. Divisional Forest Officer Amita Mondal said an investigation has been launched and that legal action will be taken against those involved.

Under the social forestry programme, beneficiary committees are responsible for maintaining roadside plantations under a 10-year agreement with the Forest Department, she added.